Houston-based Avelo Airlines will become the first commercial airline to operate out of McKinney National Airport (DTX), launching five nonstop routes to Las Vegas and four Florida cities beginning November 11, 2026.

The low-cost carrier announced it will fly from McKinney to Las Vegas four times per week, Fort Lauderdale five times per week, Fort Myers twice per week, Orlando five times per week, and Tampa four times per week using Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. Avelo will base two aircraft at the airport, reflecting a long-term commitment to the region.

The airline is offering introductory one-way fares starting at $99 for customers booking in July, with the first checked bag free of charge during the promotional period. Avelo’s founder and CEO Andrew Levy said the carrier was drawn to operating at a secondary airport in a large metro area, calling McKinney a community on the rise.

Avelo’s arrival marks a milestone for McKinney National Airport, which has pursued commercial air service for years. The expansion moved forward despite a failed 2023 bond election, with city leaders pursuing a smaller project funded through local and state grants and sales-tax-backed debt.

McKinney Mayor Bill Cox said projections show a significant economic impact tied to the airport’s future, with an expansion of $600 million to $700 million expected in the years after operations begin. Cox described McKinney National as a reliever airport for DFW and Love Field, serving the growing northern Metroplex.

The airport built only what was needed for day one operations, with plans to expand later. Airport Director Kenneth Carley said in February that the city reduced the project scope to focus on essential requirements, with growth planned from there.

Avelo already operates at three other Texas airports, including Dallas-Fort Worth International, Houston Hobby, and George Bush Intercontinental. The McKinney operation will bring over 100 new jobs to the area, according to the company.

The city indicated it is on track to secure a second carrier, signaling growing confidence in the McKinney market among budget airlines seeking alternatives to congested major hubs.

Sources: NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth, Avelo Airlines press release